Better Now
Blanks
Navigating Heartbreak and Self-Reflection in 'Better Now' by Blanks
Blanks' song 'Better Now' delves into the emotional aftermath of a breakup, capturing the complex feelings of regret, longing, and self-reflection. The lyrics suggest a narrative where the protagonist is grappling with the end of a significant relationship. The repeated assertion that the other person is 'better now' hints at a facade of moving on, possibly masking deeper unresolved emotions. This sentiment is underscored by the line, 'You only say that 'cause I'm not around,' indicating that the ex-partner's perceived improvement is tied to the protagonist's absence.
The song also touches on themes of regret and missed opportunities. The protagonist reflects on their past actions, admitting, 'You know I never meant to let you down,' and expressing a willingness to have given 'anything' and 'everything' to make things right. This sense of regret is compounded by the realization that material possessions and superficial priorities ('Everything came second to the Benzo') contributed to the relationship's downfall. The imagery of a once-cherished photo now relegated to a drawer symbolizes the fading memories and the emotional distance that has grown between the two.
Cultural references, such as 'rollin' with my brothers like it's Jonas,' add a layer of relatability and modernity to the song. The mention of drinking Hennessy to forget highlights the protagonist's struggle to cope with the lingering pain and memories. Despite the repeated refrain of being 'better now,' the song conveys a sense of unresolved heartache and the difficulty of truly moving on. Blanks' emotive delivery and the song's introspective lyrics create a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the journey towards healing.